It is on the dip slope of the South Downs just north of the ridge called Portsdown Hill.

The Norman manor of Widley was held by the De Port and St John families of Cosham, and later passed to the Earls of Albemarle.

In 1293, Isabel countess of Albemarle died without heirs and the manor passed back to the St John family.

Remains of the village's former chapel can be found close to Widley Farm; members of Charles Dickens' family, including his younger brother Alfred, are buried in the graveyard.

Politically, the majority of Widley is part of Purbrook Ward of Havant Borough Council.